George Washington

Indian peace medals are an important part of the history of U.S. presidential portraiture and also an essential element in federal Indian policy. Presented to Native chiefs on such important occasions as the signing of a treaty or a visit to the nation’s capital, the medals gave rank and distinction. Many were passed down from generation to generation.

In the first half of the nineteenth century, the design was determined by the need to win the allegiance of the Indians. Medals contained the likeness of the president on one side and symbols of peace and friendship on the other. Acceptance of a medal signified friendship and loyalty to the United States. By midcentury, the medals encouraged assimilation of Native Americans into American society.